News|CrimeWorker at France’s Elysee Palace to face trial over alleged theftThree people arrested in connection with suspected theft of items worth between 15,000 and 40,000 euros.

Three individuals, including the keeper of presidential silverware in France, are facing trial for the alleged theft of porcelain and other valuable tableware, according to the Paris prosecution office.

The suspects, identified as Thomas M, Damien G, and Ghislain M, were apprehended on Tue, with charges of theft and receiving stolen goods. Their full names remain confidential in accordance with French privacy laws.

The Elysee reported the disappearance of tableware items used for official events, valued between 15,000 and 40,000 euros (approximately $17,500 to $46,800). Investigations revealed that around 100 items, including copper pots, Sevres porcelain, and Baccarat champagne glasses, were found in Thomas M’s possession.

Additional items, such as an air force-stamped plate and ashtrays, were being sold on Vinted, a platform where these items are typically unavailable to the public.

The suspects appeared in court on charges of stealing moveable property classified as national heritage, which carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a 150,000-euro fine (approximately $175,000). The trial is scheduled to resume on Fri, Feb 26. Meanwhile, the defendants are under judicial supervision and are prohibited from contacting each other, attending auction events, or engaging in their professional roles.

The Sevres porcelain factory, a key supplier to the Elysee, identified several stolen items on auction websites, some of which have been recovered. It is noted that Ghislain M, a guard at the Louvre museum, may have been motivated by a personal interest in rare antiques.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.